2017.11.01 Field Hockey: Riverside @ Heritage, 4A Region C Semifinal

Leesburg, VA (November 1, 2017) – The fifth-seeded Riverside Rams had to make a big comeback to upset number four Fauquier on Monday, but they did so and that earned them the right to play the Heritage Pride for a spot in the Region C final. Heritage, on the other hand, beat Kettle Run without much of a challenge, but their season record was reason enough to earn the home field advantage all the way through the region.

The Rams were clearly the underdog, but they had confidence for two reasons: first, they had completely flipped their 2016 record going from 3-13 to 13-3 this season. Second, and more importantly, they were the only team to beat Heritage, a 2-1 victory way back in late August.

Since then, however, the Pride had won fourteen in a row including a rematch over Riverside three weeks ago.

Just over a minute into tonight's game, Heritage's Josie Rossbach emerged from a scrum in front of the Rams' goal and hit the ball just hard enough for it to cross the line before the defenders could reach it. That goal would not prove to be the game-winner, but it sure gave Heritage all of the momentum they would need.

For the rest of the first half the Pride controlled the game. Credit goes to the Riverside defense for keeping the score low, but Sydney Krieger would connect with twelve minutes remaining to give Heritage a decisive 2-0 lead.

Again the Rams fought back. Eight minutes into the second half they finally scored on a rising shot from Eva Yacura. And for the rest of the game they did their very best to close the gap all the way. The Pride defense, led by goalie Gabi Gray, was stout, however, and would not be scored on again.

Heritage will play Eastern View, upset winners over Dominion, for the Region championship.

Final score: Heritage 2 - Riverside 1.

Players who could be clearly identified by jersey number are listed in the links below. Additional photos of these and other players may be found by reviewing the full gallery.